Yale Bulletin and Calendar

November 15-22, 1999

Volume 28, Number 13

People with OCD can find support in group therapy

Treatment for obsessive thinking and compulsive behavior is now available in a group setting at the Yale Psychological Services Clinic.

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) involves excessive worry about being harmed in some way. People with the disorder may fear being contaminated or getting sick from dirt and germs. This worry results in compulsive behavior like excessive hand washing and taking showers. Other kinds of obsessive-compulsive behavior include checking, counting, hoarding and other repetitive behaviors that are performed to reduce anxiety and worry.

"People feel such terrible shame about their obsessive behavior," says Sheila Woody, assistant professor of psychology and director of the Yale Psychological Services Clinic. "The group setting helps to normalize the obsessive thoughts, by providing social support from others with OCD."

Everyone has some of the same kinds of thoughts, but obsessive-compulsives have these thoughts more often and they're afraid of them, explains Woody. The group treatment is a unique, cost-effective approach consisting of state-of-the-art cognitive-behavioral treatment strategies designed to help individuals overcome the fears and avoidance associated with obsessive thoughts and compulsive behavior.

"We've seen an increase in the number of people coming in for treatment," says Woody. "As more people come forward and recognize it for what it is, there will be an improvement in the behavior. People tend to live with their behavior for years before seeking treatment. I hope programs like this one will encourage more OCD sufferers to seek help."

Potential participants will undergo a comprehensive evaluation to determine whether the treatment program is appropriate for them. Individuals selected for the treatment participate in group sessions over a 12-20 week period. Fees range from $40 to $55 per group session (based on a sliding fee scale). Many insurance carriers may reimburse these services.

The Yale Psychological Services Clinic is a clinical, training and research facility affiliated with the department of psychology, and also offers treatment for people with depression, anxiety, social phobia and relationship problems. For more information, call (203) 432-4520.

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